At Red Stick Mom, we are on a journey to continuously learn about the importance of supporting our neighbors in marginalized communities where disparity is far too prevalent, specifically in the black community. We’ve been happy to share in supporting various black-owned local businesses and are having conversations with our kids about race. We want to continue to show support which is why are highlighting local organizations who are working diligently to serve our neighbors of color in the Greater Baton Rouge area. Our hope is to raise awareness about the great work they are already doing and share it with others. We are excited to put the spotlight on an amazing non-profit organization, the Baton Rouge Youth Coalition.
How did the Baton Rouge Youth Coalition start?
The Baton Rouge Youth Coalition (BRYC) was founded in 2009 when a high school teacher realized that even his highest-achieving students would struggle to realize college success because they lacked key resources. BRYC began with 15 students meeting after school and today serves 265 high-achieving, under-resourced high school students spread across 10 districts.
What does the Baton Rouge Youth Coalition do in the community?
BRYC aims to provide the best college access resources money can buy–for free. Our services include:
- Support from 1:1 volunteer mentors
- 25:1 student-to-college-counselor ratio
- Workshops to develop study and organizational skills
- ACT prep classes, unlimited practice tests, and subscription to ACT prep software
- College essay support from a designated staff member and team of volunteer writing coaches
- Individualized tutoring available by appointment Monday through Thursday
- Mental health services from a Licensed Professional Counselor
- Connection to volunteer and community engagement opportunities
- $250 in discretionary funds for college process-related fees
- Support into and through college from a designated staff member
The Mission
BRYC prepares high-achieving, under-resourced high school students to enter, excel in, and graduate from college so they can become full participants in society.
BRYC has about 450 alumni. They persist in four-year college at a rate of 72 percent, more than five times the national average. When including our two-year and technical college students, that figure rises to 80 percent.
How you can support the Baton Rouge Youth Coalition
We are seeking reliable, caring adults to volunteer as ACT Mentors for the Spring 2021 semester. These mentors will guide one or two high school juniors through preparing for the ACT. No special knowledge or experience required!
We would also love support in recruiting 9th-through-11th grade students for the 2021-2022 school year. Prospective BRYC Fellows should have at least a 3.0 GPA and come from a household earning $65,000 or less annually. More information is available at thebryc.org/apply.
Finally, supporters can make a tax-deductible financial contribution at thebryc.org/donate.
Follow the Baton Rouge Youth Coalition for the latest news::
Website • Facebook • Instagram • Twitter
If you’re interested in nominating an organization to be featured in our Red Stick Be The Change Spotlight, please email us at [email protected].
